Overview of Upcoming Manga Trends in 2025
- Akane-banashi seamlessly intertwines the rich tradition of rakugo with the competitive spirit of sports anime, making it a must-read for manga enthusiasts this year.
- Centuria delivers an unfiltered, heart-wrenching dark fantasy narrative, merging elements of tragedy with cosmic horror, marking it as an essential new series.
- Gokurakugai rises rapidly in popularity by combining supernatural action with the chaotic energy reminiscent of series like Dandadan and Tokyo Ghoul, promising relentless demon-slaying action.
The manga landscape in 2025 is brimming with excitement and fresh narratives, especially as established series like My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen approach their finales. Audiences are eager for innovative stories that resonate just as powerfully. For those seeking distinctive offerings, Akane-banashi stands out by merging the art of rakugo storytelling with the dramatic intensity found in sports anime.
Venturing into darker themes, Centuria unfolds a gripping tale set in a cruel universe where personal tragedy meets the uncanny horrors of the cosmos. These selections are merely the tip of the iceberg. The year ahead promises an array of new stories that every manga aficionado shouldn’t miss. Below, we spotlight several impactful titles to watch for in 2025.
10. Marriagetoxin
Hitman Must Marry To Save His Queer Sister’s Future
- Illustrator: Mizuki Yoda
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: April 20, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Action, Romantic Comedy
- Mangadex: 8.45
Marriagetoxin showcases an outrageous premise that surprisingly works flawlessly. It intertwines the awkwardness of romantic comedy with the tumultuous life of an assassin. The story follows Gero, a hitman with expertise in poisons, who finds himself in a marriage race to save his queer sister’s future. This narrative deftly maneuvers through high-stakes action, romantic tension, and compelling character development.
With striking character designs and intriguing figures like the mysterious matchmaker Kinosaki, this series excels in balancing humor with emotional depth. Readers who enjoyed titles such as Sakamoto Days and Kaguya-sama will likely be captivated by its engaging blend of comedy and sentiment.
9. Akane-Banashi
Rakugo Artist Fights For Recognition In Intense Tournaments
- Illustrator: Takamasa Moue
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: February 14, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Coming-of-age, Comedy Drama
- Mangadex: 8.74
Akane-banashi immerses readers in the world of rakugo, a traditional Japanese storytelling art, centered around Akane Osaki, a passionate teenager fighting for recognition after her father’s career is unjustly ruined. Despite its specialized theme, this series boasts the thrilling energy characteristic of popular sports anime, featuring competitive tournaments, evolving rivalries, and dramatic storytelling.
Akane emerges as an incredibly dynamic and relatable protagonist, whose journey resonates with readers. This compelling narrative quietly captivates, making it an indispensable choice for manga enthusiasts, especially fans of Act-Age.
8. Kagurabachi
A Son Seeks Revenge Against Those Who Murdered His Father
- Illustrator: Takeru Hokazono
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: September 19, 2023 – Present
- Genre: Action, Drama, Dark Fantasy
- Mangadex: 8.90
Kagurabachi chronicles the quest of Chihiro, the son of a revered swordsmith, seeking vengeance against those responsible for his father’s murder. Although it may appear to follow the classic revenge narrative, the manga reveals a richly layered setting filled with cursed weapons and enigmatic societies.
Fans of series like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen will appreciate the sharp action sequences and emotionally intense story arcs woven throughout this gripping saga. Particular highlights include the thrilling Sojo battle and the intense Rakuzaichi arc; with momentum steadily building, now is the time to engage with this trending title.
7. Gokurakugai
Exorcists Fight Monsters In A Chaotic Action Adventure
- Illustrator: Yuto Sano
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: July 4, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Adventure, Supernatural
- Mangadex: 8.93
Gokurakugai is an electrifying new supernatural action series that captures the essence of chaotic thrillers. Featuring Alma and Tao—two stylish exorcists-for-hire—its narrative brims with high-octane action and a captivating monster-of-the-week format.
This series skillfully transitions from amusing episodic content to more profound and interconnected storylines, culminating in a rich, layered experience. Its visual design, reminiscent of Ranma ½, marries vibrant absurdity with a darker, more sophisticated tone, making it an unmissable choice for readers seeking stylish action-packed narratives.
6. Centuria
A Boy With Eldritch Power Seeks To Protect An Orphaned Child
- Illustrator: Tohru Kuramori
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: April 8, 2024 – Present
- Genre: Dark Fantasy
- Mangadex: 8.98
Centuria stands as a masterclass in dark fantasy, melding heavy emotional gravity with narratives of cosmic horror and human struggle. Crafted by a former assistant of Chainsaw Man, this series is unflinching in its portrayal of raw emotion and human frailty.
The protagonist, Julian, navigates a world steeped in tragedy and despair after tragically inheriting an unsettling eldritch power. As he grapples with the aftermath of horrific events, his journey revolves around protecting Mira’s child, showcasing a blend of heartbreaking loss and a fierce determination to rise above negativity. This complex storyline, rich in character depth, will resonate with readers seeking morally intricate heroes and profound narratives.
5. Ichi The Witch
A Boy Becomes The First Male Witch In A World Dominated By Women
- Illustrator: Shiro Usazaki
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: September 9, 2024 – Present
- Genre: Fantasy
- Mangadex: 8.98
Ichi the Witch introduces an exciting twist on traditional fantasy tropes by depicting a boy who becomes the first male witch in a universe dominated by female magic wielders. The narrative unfolds with witty humor, spectacular magical battles, and heartwarming mentorship, centered around Ichi’s playful charm and the enigmatic Desscaras, who claims the title of the strongest witch.
This innovative approach will attract fans of beloved series like Witch Hat Atelier and Cardcaptor Sakura, offering an imaginative magic system along with captivating artwork and vibrant paneling. Poised to become a significant addition to this year’s fantasy lineup, Ichi the Witch is a series that readers won’t want to miss.
4. Gachiakuta
Teen Framed For Murder Battles Monsters In A Brutal Underworld
- Illustrator: Kei Urana
- Published by: Kodansha
- Original Run: February 16, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy, Dystopian
- Rating: 9.12
Gachiakuta reimagines the revenge narrative with a gritty, bold approach. Set in a dystopian society where the elite dispose of both waste and humanity into a vast Abyss, the tale follows Rudo—a young rebel framed for murder—who faces a harrowing fate reminiscent of his father’s. Instead of death, however, he is thrown into an unforgiving underworld teeming with formidable monsters.
With visually striking aesthetics and a punk vibe, this story melds dystopic elements with the exhilarating thrill of monster hunting. As the complexities within the Abyss deepen and Rudo’s vengeance intensifies, Gachiakuta carves out a unique place in the landscape of 2025’s manga scene.
3. RuriDragon
Teen With Dragon Horns Navigates School Life, Friendship, And Self-Discovery
- Illustrator: Masaoki Shindo
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: June 13, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Coming-of-age, Fantasy, Slice of Life
- Mangadex: 9.22
RuriDragon ventures away from the typical Shonen Jump narrative, providing a gentle exploration of adolescence saturated with supernatural elements. Rather than focusing on epic battles or relentless power struggles, it charms readers through the experiences of Ruri Aoki, a half-dragon grappling with her newfound abilities amidst the trials of high school and friendship.
Rich with the whimsical energy of Machikado Mazoku, this manga balances humor and character-driven storytelling without sacrificing depth or relatability. Its informative, biweekly chapters keep readers engaged as they witness Ruri’s journey of self-discovery and unique teenage experiences.
2. The Bugle Call: Song Of War
A Bugler’s Music Powers Spark War, Secrets, And Betrayal
- Illustrator: Higoro Toumori
- Published by: Shueisha
- Original Run: June 3, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Dark Fantasy, Military
- Mangadex Rating: 9.37
The Bugle Call: Song of War is poised to capture the attention of readers in 2025. Following Luca—a bugler with the extraordinary ability to convert music into light—his journey begins under the mysterious guidance of a Pontiff, where promises of musical fulfillment soon unravel into darker truths and devastating conflicts.
The intricate narrative splits between awe-inspiring powers, tumultuous battles, and elaborate world-building, positioning it among the most compelling reads of the year. With a recent English release, it’s an opportune moment for newcomers to delve into this enthralling tale, promising captivating experiences for fans of Attack on Titan and Fullmetal Alchemist.
1. The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t A Guy At All
Teen Romance Explores Gender, Attraction, And Self-Discovery Through Disguise
- Illustrator: Sumiko Arai
- Published by: Kadokawa Shoten
- Original Run: April 10, 2022 – Present
- Genre: Yuri, Slice of Life, Music
- Mangadex: 9.53
The Guy She Was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All emerges as a delightful queer romance in 2025’s manga landscape, characterized by a refreshing twist on familiar themes. Ideal for enthusiasts of Bloom Into You and Whisper Me a Love Song, the narrative tracks stylish Aya’s crush on a seemingly cool guy from her favorite record shop—only to discover that the “guy” is actually Mitsuki, a classmate donning a disguise.
This intriguing revelation deepens their romance, fostering an exploration of gender identity, connection, and mutual understanding as both characters navigate their respective journeys. Eschewing clichés in favor of poignant slice-of-life depictions and subtle emotional arcs, this title encapsulates the modern queer experience with thoughtful accuracy. Featuring polished art and a compelling narrative pace, it stands out as a sweet and sincere romance worth reading.